This delicious toast features creamy ricotta spread over crispy sourdough, topped with juicy tomatoes. It’s simple yet super tasty!
Perfect for breakfast or a snack, I love how fresh and colorful it looks. Plus, who doesn’t appreciate a quick treat that tastes gourmet? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: This bread adds a crunchy texture and tangy flavor. If you can’t find sourdough, whole grain or ciabatta are great alternatives for a similar taste.
Ricotta Cheese: Fresh ricotta is creamy and mild, which works beautifully here. If you want a lighter option, cottage cheese can substitute, but it won’t be as creamy.
Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes are key. If they’re out of season, you might use cherry tomatoes for sweetness or even sun-dried tomatoes for a unique flavor twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives richness; feel free to swap it with avocado oil or even a flavored oil for an extra kick.
Garnishes: Basil adds freshness, but if you’re not a fan, consider using arugula or even microgreens to dress it up. Chia seeds are nice for crunch, but sesame seeds or even crushed nuts can work too.
How Do I Toast Sourdough for the Perfect Crunch?
Toasting the sourdough properly is crucial for the best texture in this recipe. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a toaster or a skillet. If using a skillet, heat it to medium-high and add the bread when it’s hot.
- Toast until golden and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
- If you like, brush the bread with a little olive oil before toasting for added flavor.
Let the toast cool slightly before spreading the ricotta, as this helps it stay creamy without becoming too runny. Enjoy your delightful toast!
Easy Creamy Ricotta and Tomato Sourdough Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp chia seeds or black sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 3 minutes to toast the bread and about 5 to assemble the delicious toppings. It’s a quick and satisfying meal any time of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Sourdough:
Start by toasting the sourdough slices in a toaster or on a skillet until they are golden brown and crispy. If using a skillet, preheat it over medium heat and toast for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The goal is a nice crunch that holds up the toppings!
2. Spread the Ricotta:
Once your toast is ready, spread a generous layer of creamy ricotta cheese on each slice while it’s still warm. The warmth helps the ricotta melt slightly into the bread, making each bite delightful.
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Now, take the fresh tomato slices and arrange them evenly on top of the ricotta. Feel free to overlap them a bit for a delicious tower of flavor.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Next, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the tomatoes and ricotta. This adds a rich flavor and a lovely shine to your toast.
5. Garnish for Crunch:
Sprinkle chia seeds or black sesame seeds over the top for a bit of crunch and a pretty presentation. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference!
6. Season It Up:
Now, add a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This will enhance all the flavors and brighten up your toast beautifully.
7. Add Fresh Basil:
For that final touch, garnish your toast with fresh basil leaves. They bring a burst of color and add a fresh, herbaceous flavor that ties everything together.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy ricotta and tomato sourdough toast immediately and enjoy the beautiful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have ricotta on hand, creamy goat cheese or mascarpone work wonderfully as alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
What Kind of Tomatoes Work Best?
For the best flavor, use ripe, juicy tomatoes like beefsteak or heirloom varieties. Cherry tomatoes also work great if you prefer a sweeter, bite-sized option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the components separately to maintain their freshness. Place the unused ricotta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Toast any remaining bread when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the ricotta with a plant-based ricotta, cashew cream, or hummus. Use your favorite olive oil and skip the chia seeds for a perfectly tasty vegan toast!
